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African Holidays to Egypt and South Africa

July 19th, 2011 No comments

African Holidays to Egypt and South Africa

Article by joesmith







The African continent is one of the most blessed when it comes to the scenic natural grandeur which reflects in its mountains, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, beaches deserts, and wilderness areas. Those planning to embark on African holidays for the first time would do well to head to either Egypt or South Africa.

The land of Pharaos – Egypt

The popularity of Egypt holidays is mainly due to the remarkable legacy of spectacular historical sites across the country with the famed pyramids topping the charts. Holidays to Egypt can include a plethora of sightseeing attractions but there are few that just cannot be missed by the tourists.

Egypt Must Visit Destinations and Attractions

Cairo, situated by the River Nile, is an intriguing mix of traditional and modern. The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo features more than 120,000 artefacts exhibiting over 3000 years of splendid Egyptian history. A walk through the popular Khan El Khalili market is a good way to discover the Egyptian way of life. The city boasts of some of the finest hotels and restaurants in Egypt.

The Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Giza, the epitome of ancient Egyptian architecture form the integral part of holidays in Egypt.

Alexandria is one of the largest cities in Egypt. Located on the Mediterranean coast, the city lures beach lovers and sun worshippers for its spectacular beaches, bath warm waters, great weather and a range of water activities.

Luxor, a beautiful city, is the place of temples and royal tombs. Being such a tourist magnet, Luxor like Cairo, has some of the most popular and luxurious hotels in Egypt. Karnak is a fantastic collection of temples, sanctuaries, pylons and other buildings that are all devoted to the Theban gods and ancient pharaohs.

While on Egypt Holidays, an expedition to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens on the West Bank is a must for many visiting Luxor. These house a variety of tombs from the 18th and 19th dynasties.

The picturesque city of Aswan is popular for Nile Cruises, the temple of Philae, the Temple of Abu Simbel, the soaring High Dam, fishing at Lake Nassar, Elephantine Island.

Sharm El Sheikh and Hurgadha are two most popular Red Sea resorts with a fine variety of hotels and restaurants, bars and shops. Both serve as wonderful haven for water sports enthusiasts.

South Africa – The Rainbow Nation

South Africa is symbolised by splendid scenic sights, tremendous mountains and wonderful beaches. Its cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban delight the visitors with their unique charm, warm hospitality, multi ethnicity and other cultural draws.

South Africa – Key Destinations & Attractions

Johannesburg’s adorable attractions include the Gold Reef City, Pilanesberg National Park, Bruma Lake Flea Market and Johannesburg Zoo apart from an assortment of finest spas for those seeking peace of mind and body on their South Africa Holidays. Sun City features impressive theatre scene, vibrant casino, and superb health spa along with plentiful pubs and discs, restaurants, botanical gardens and speciality shops.

Capetown’s majestic Table Mountain casts its magic with unsurpassed views of the city from atop it. The sandy beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton, the buzzing city centre Robben Island, Cape Point, Kirstenbosch, the Winelands and the scenic V&A Waterfront all vie for attention.

South Africa holidays are particularly famous among wildlife and nature lovers with the Kruger National Park and the Garden Route being popular tourist circuits.



About the Author

Joesmith is an expert in Online marketing.Presently working in a leading travel company:Awayholidays.To know about travel & hotels for various countries like Dubai,USA,India,UK,Australia,Singapore,New Zealand & many other visit Cheap Holidays|Cheap Hotels|Travel Deals .To know about Holidays and Hotels in Egypt visit Holidays to Egypt .

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Have A Blast With Some Luxury Train Travel Via Rovos Rail

January 31st, 2010 No comments

If you think of luxury train travel one thing should come to mind that is Rovos Rail. It’s called the pride of Africa this wonderful collection of high class locomotives that can take you on a wonderful journey. Whether it is to have a romantic getaway or just go site seeing, this should be the place you look too.

Though it has taken some time to get many of the fleet in their selection. It is something that has been accomplished very well. Through years of searching and refurbishing you now have a chance to ride a classic train with modern pluses.

The oldest of the locomotives they have is the 1893, it is the 439 Tiffany. Built back in that year by the Company of Dubs and Co. Located in Scotland. During that time it was something that was built for the Cape Government to use. At that time the trip it would take would be the one that lead from Johannesburg into Cape Town.

Taking the time to refurbish and rebuilt the engine to a much more efficient model. The original firebox boiler would be replaced by that of the Belpair firebox. It was due to Rohan seeing this beautiful engine during travels that it would be purchased in the year of 1987.

Another three beautiful engines would be added during later times to the stock, they would be those 19D class engine. Overall only a total of 235 of this type of model would be built from the years of 1937 up to 1948.

They have also be modified from the original built into something that will give it more area to cover. Replacing the tenders that were originally in them with ones of Vanderbilt that are able to hold much more coal and water.

The first of these models that would be acquired would be the 2702 Bianca that was built during 1938. It would be acquired by the family during 1986 when it was found in a scrap metal yard. Again it would be given the right touch to get it back into working condition.

Again hitting another scrap metal yard the next purchase would be of the 2701 Brenda. Once again with a loving touch it would be fixed up and made possible to run once again.

The last of the 19D class that would be added was something that Rohan would come across while checking the yard where the other trains were fixed up. It was the 3360 Shaun, and it would of course be done up just perfect again.

This is really a once in a lifetime chance that many should think of taking. A chance of riding in a classic train that has all the modern needs that you seek. The inside of these trains is completely wonderful.

A true chance for the train lover too out there to enjoy something that would offer a fantastic journey. Not only can you enjoy the scenery of Africa when you travel this way. But you will also have the chance to be on some of the most beautiful locomotives that are out there currently.

If you think of luxury train travel one thing should come to mind that is Rovos Victoria Falls . It’s referred to as the pride of Africa this wonderful collection of top quality locomotives that can take you on an exciting journey.

Virgin Airlines

January 22nd, 2010 No comments

Owned by Virgin Group and Singapore Airlines, Virgin Airlines is well known for its decidedly British feel. Its main hubs are located at two London airports, Heathrow & Gatwick. It also has a secondary hub at Manchester. The airline provides service from the United Kingdom to North America, Africa, Caribbean, Australia, Asia and the Middle East.

Virgin Atlantic serves about 30 destinations worldwide with its fleet of more than 35 aircraft. It further extends its network through code-sharing relationships (agreements that allow airlines to sell tickets on each other’s flights) with other airlines including Air China, Continental Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Australia-based sister company Virgin Blue.

Plans for two routes, one from London to the Falkland Islands in the aftermath of the Falkland War, and the other from London Gatwick to JFK Airport, were either scrapped or rejected. Plans were in the works for a route between London Gatwick and Newark Liberty International Airport, when it became necessary for the company to secure additional funding.Virgin Atlantic and its sister companies got their start in’82 when American Randolph Fields teamed up with pilot Alan Hellary to launch British Atlantic Airways.

Fields and Branson struck an agreement after tortuous discussions which led to the formation of the airline currently known as Virgin Atlantic starting its first flight between Londan and Newark in June’84. (Fields was later bought out.) A combination of funding from sister company Virgin Records and the timing of the agreement within the peak summer travel system allowed the company to make money in its first year of operation.

This move led to BA’s so-called “dirty tricks” campaign against Virgin Atlantic which included libel lawsuits, and an out-of-court settlement on BA’s part after lawyers found evidence of the extraordinary efforts BA was taking to “kill off” Virgin Atlantic.Virgin Atlantic and British Airways have been rivals since the company’s inception. The competition became even more intense when the UK government began allowing Virgin Atlantic to operate from London Heathrow airport in January’91.

Virgin has never been shy about taking on its competition through its advertising. Some examples: Mine’s Bigger Than Yours – painted on the back of the Airbus A340-600s because they are the longest passenger aircraft in the world

Avoid the Q – Advertised Virgin’s London to Hong Kong to Sydney route in opposition to Quantas which was operating the same route; also promoted Virgins online check-in literally allowing passengers to avoid the queues.

Upper class is the equivalent of business class since the airline does not offer a traditional first class cabin service. Virgin Atlantic claims its Upper Class seat is the largest fully flat bed when compared with any other airlines’ business class seating.No Way BA/AA – Expressed Branson’s displease with a proposed British Airways/American Airlines partnership.Virgin Atlantic currently offers three cabin classes: upper class, premium economy and economy.

Premium Economy passengers have their own check-in and get to board before Economy passengers. They enjoy greater seat width and legroom. Most planes have undergone upgrading to provide Premium Economy seats that come with power supplies for laptops. Economy class now includes free drinks and upgraded seats with adjustable back support in all aircraft.

Personal televisions mounted in the seat backs are available on all of the planes flown by Virgin Atlantic. Audio and video on demand systems are also installed on some of their aircraft. In addition, Virign Atlantic has various sister airlines. These are Virgin America, Virgin Blue, Virgin Express, Virgin Galactic, Virgin Nigeria Airways, Virgin Atlantic Global Flyer and V Australia.,

Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for South Arica’s leading Flight comparison portal, which includes Virgin Atlantic Airlines amongst others.

Nairobi, The Most Exciting City in Africa

September 15th, 2009 No comments

Nairobi is the most exciting town in Africa – hands down. This fact is little known, so this article gives you an insiders look of the food scene, hotels, lounges, bars and the trendy cosmopolitan inhabitants of the Capital of Kenya – Nairobi. Nairobi is thrilling, fun and a never sleeping city – the hub of Africa.

Swanky residents enjoy sumptuous cuisine in Kenya’s restaurants, lounges and bars. Afro-fusion cuisine create a whole new adventure for foodies. Maize cobs roasting by the roadside provide an amazing snack to the high paced tempo in the city.

The five star living is juxtaposed by informal dwellings. Less to do with the lack of ambition of the Kenyan people but more to do with the lack of provision of affordable decent housing. This never stops Kenyans as the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. Pick up some trendy in-door and garden furniture by the roadside.

Nyama choma, the most succulent barbeque of savannah-fed beef, veal, lamb or goat is so good it needs to be a key export. The meat is juicy, lean and with just the right texture to make a meat connoisseur coming back for more. The hotels are trendy and with several five star hotels to choose from, you are guaranteed a chic and luxurious place to lay your head.

From the Nairobi Serena, which has the lush Central Park surrounding it, making you forget you are in the city center. The Nairobi Safari Club is an all suite hotel – luxurious and tremendous value. If you want enjoy the westlands action, the Holiday Inn is just what you are looking for. Nestled in the shopping and party central of Nairobi, only 3 kilometers from the City Center.

If you are up for some fun on a Thursday evening, Havana is where to see and be seen – the Cuban restaurant and bar comes alive with the most cosmopolitan crowd that Kenya has to offer, live music and an electrifying ambiance. Now foodies can choose from the Central American greats with Mexican cuisine at Alcapulco or Japanese restaurants like Furisato both in Westlands. Blancos is creating however the most exciting and adventurous afro-fusion cuisine. They deserve a page of their own for us to do them justice and we strong recommend a visit.

Gigiri in Nairobi is home to the United Nations Environment Programme headquarters. Nearby, the Village Market, Kenya’s first open plan mall plays host to the Maasai Market. This is a world renowed market selling beautifully crafted tableware, accessories, fashion, interior design, and traditional ornaments. Village market is also home to Tribe displaying afro-chic interior design at its best – this five star hotel is truly unique.

The art and theater scene is alive and well. From Gallery Watatu where you can enjoy exceptional paintings to Phoenix players that stage some of the most refine artistry in town. In 2009, Kenya played host to the Haymarket festival. Nobel Laureates Wangari Mathai and Wole Soyinka joined renowned local and international narrators and poets hosted by StoryMoja. Incidentally, the StoryMoja crew staged their play ‘ Cut off my tounge’ in London. Who said Kenya’s do not engage in the literary arts?

MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) are to be applauded for recognising the emergence of Kenyan music onto the world stage and is hosting the awards in Nairobi. This celebrates the Kenyan renaissance that is train, in music, design, fashion, art, cuisine – you name it. Nameless, STL, Amani and Wahu ( who won best female artist last year) are all amongst Kenya’s musicians who have received nominations for this year. So get your party shoes on and get ready to party to Kenyan music as well as celebrate music and artists from across Africa.

A true sign that Kenyan fashion has matured is the Kiko Romeo store at the trendy Yaya Center mall. The Festival for African Fashion and Arts (FAFA) awards hosted annually in Nairobi highlight that African fashion is envouge and the designers are at the top of their game. We salute the fabulous trend – celebrating Kenyan culture, creativity, enterprise and talent. Kenyan’s both young and old are showing that wearing our own unique get up is what being hip is about.

So the next time you are travelling through Kenya on transit at JKIA or planning a safari or beach holiday, be sure to stop and enjoy Nairobi. A treat that will leave you wanting more! See you in Nairobi.

Nyaruita Gateri, the Chief Adventurer at Journey Kenya has been traveling around Kenya for over two decades and knows fabulous locations to see animals in Kenya and to experience Kenya culture. Visit the discover section on Journey Kenya to get your excellent free guide to kenya animals, Kenya map and kenya people and to share your own experiences, stories and photos.

Traveling Through South Africa

September 3rd, 2009 No comments

A vibrant and diverse land, South Africa is home to dreamy beaches, exciting wild grasslands, awe-inspiring deserts, and even some rather impressive vineyards. The tragedy of Europe’s invasion and exploitation of the land has evolved since the fall of apartheid into a rich melting pot of both European and African culture. On a simple drive you may find yourself torn between the contrasting sights of white and black architecture and culture, from Paris to Delhi and back again. For those who are unaware, Indians are a significant portion of the communities of South Africa that have a great impact.

Best time to visit South Africa: Normally, anybody can visit South Africa year round, as the climate is pleasant and warm. The climate is exactly the opposite of the climate in North America or Europe. South Africa enjoys winter during the month of July.

In South Africa, June to September is the best time for safaris and wildlife observation. Because of dry season or dryness, animals come out near to the watering places. It is the best time to watch and observe them. Krger national park and in the protected game areas of KwaZulu Natal, are the noted parks of South Africa. Temp is around 25deg C. during day. As compare to the day, nights are cool. South African summer is warm on the east coast. Its Indian Ocean plays very important role in maintaining pleasant role for whole year. Some times summer is very bad and tough. Temperature goes up and very difficult to live. This could make bearable by extreme dryness. The autumn has usually pleasant temperatures. Some time its rains in autumn. Occasionally Cape Town goes thru unpleasant southeast winds. This usually abates from March to April.

Autumn normally has good temperatures with a little rain, and during this season the unpleasant winds in Cape Town begin to come to an end. In spring there are cooler temperatures with a medium amount of rain. This season is a treat for flower lovers. During August and September, visitors to Namaqualand in North Cape and the western areas of West Cape can enjoy the highly praised and anticipated “Miracle of Flowers.”

Following care is a must while traveling in Johannesburg and in the capital Pretoria: 1) Preferable travel in group. 2) Don’t carry much cash while site seeing. Keep cash in your room only. 3) Get full information in detail about tour / program and follow strictly. 4) Never drive with unlocked windows and doors. 5) It is advisable to go for rent a car. 6) If feels danger of attack, drive off immediately.

While special inoculations aren’t necessary, if you’re visiting during the rainier season, you should acquire a malaria shot. Don’t underestimate the mosquitoes; pack long-sleeved shirts and mosquito nets. The hospitals are quite competent and the pharmacies have a wide variety of medicines, but you must pay for these things locally, so you’ll want to get health insurance before you travel.

Customs Allowances: Each person may bring a liter of liquor, two liters of wine, 2 packs of cigarettes and 250 grams of tobacco as well as 50ml of perfume. The unit of currency is the South African Rand. As exchange rates vary, you will need to check the rate when you are booking hotels or making travel arrangements. The major, international credit cards are accepted in all states. With your own credit card and pin number you can get cash at many cash machines problem-free. The FIFA Football World Cup takes place in South Africa in 2010.

Graham McKenzie is the webmaster for a leading South African Flight Comparison portal, to book a flight, simply visit our website at: http://www.saflights.co.za